Limpopo cop killer sentenced to life behind bars
The Limpopo Division of the High Court in Thohoyandou, on Friday, March 15, handed down a life sentence to the accused, marking a pivotal moment of closure for the law enforcement community and the family of Mulanduli.
LIMPOPO – Well known traditional healer, VhoNyawasedza Sidimela of Mufulwi village near Matavhela in Mutale area, who helped the police apprehend the suspect who stabbed an on duty police officer, WO Mbulaheni Ronald Mulanduli (57) to death, welcomes the life imprisonment sentence of Muvhuso Morgan Nyadzani.
According to Sidimela, Nyadzani confessed to her that he killed Mulanduli on November 27 2020, and that he needed herbs for cleansing, so that, his case of murder, be squashed or completely dissolved.
“I had a feeling he was telling the truth, a traditional healer helps people, but I won’t help someone with blood on their hands. It is evil, and that is why I decided to inform the police,” Sidimela said.
The Limpopo Division of the High Court in Thohoyandou, on Friday, March 15, handed down a life sentence to the accused, marking a pivotal moment of closure for the law enforcement community and the family of Mulanduli.
Limpopo police spokesperson, Col Malesela Ledwaba said the deceased who was attached to the Mutale SAPS, was working in the holding cells on November 27 2020, when the accused was detained on charges of rape and kidnapping. On their way to the holding cells, the accused managed to overpower him and grabbed a sharp object and subsequently stabbed him several times.
“Nyadzani then took Mulanduli’s keys to the cells and safe, and escaped, without being noticed, with an undisclosed amount of cash. Mulanduli was discovered by his colleagues. Cases of murder, robbery and escaping from lawful custody were opened. The accused was already on trial for cases of house breaking, violation of protection order and kidnapping,” Ledwaba said.
He added the case was transferred to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in Thohoyandou.
The accused was tracked down and arrested within two days after the incident. The investigating team successfully opposed bail until the accused was sentenced.
Limpopo police provincial commissioner Lt Gen Hadebe has welcomed the sentence and commended the members of the Hawks for the sterling work. She further emphasised the importance of protecting police officers, who are important in maintaining public safety and order.